Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A network bridge, comprising: a primary upstream Power over Ethernet (PoE) port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy; a secondary upstream PoE port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy; a primary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit electrical energy; a secondary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit electrical energy; a power supply circuit connected to the primary upstream PoE port and to the secondary upstream PoE port and configured to receive electrical energy from the primary upstream PoE port and the secondary upstream PoE port and to distribute the received electrical energy to the network bridge, the primary downstream port, and the secondary downstream port; a first downstream power supply circuit connected between the power supply circuit and the primary downstream port and configured to condition and to supply electrical energy from the power supply circuit to the primary downstream port; a second downstream power supply circuit connected between the power supply circuit and the secondary downstream port and configured to condition and to supply electrical energy from the power supply circuit to the secondary downstream port; a switchable resistor bank connected to the power supply circuit, wherein the switchable resistor bank includes a plurality of discrete resistance values, wherein each discrete resistance value corresponds to a PoE power class; an Ethernet switch circuit connected to the primary upstream PoE port, the secondary upstream PoE port, the primary downstream port, and the secondary downstream port and configured to route Ethernet data between the primary upstream PoE port and the primary downstream port and to route Ethernet data between the secondary upstream PoE port and the secondary downstream port; a switch control logic configured to switch the switchable resistor bank among the plurality of discrete resistance values; and an electronic control circuit including a microcontroller and a memory, wherein the electronic control circuit is configured to: configure the Ethernet switch; accept a total power output data value, wherein the total power output data value specifies the amount of electrical energy to be output by the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port; and control the power supply circuit to distribute the total power output value of electrical energy to the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port.
A network bridge system is designed to enhance power distribution and data routing in Ethernet networks, particularly in environments requiring redundant power sources and efficient power management. The system includes multiple upstream and downstream Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports, allowing it to receive electrical energy from two separate upstream sources while distributing power to connected downstream devices. The primary and secondary upstream PoE ports transmit and receive both data and electrical energy, ensuring redundancy and reliability. A central power supply circuit aggregates power from these upstream ports and distributes it to the network bridge components and downstream ports. Each downstream port is connected to a dedicated power supply circuit that conditions and supplies electrical energy to connected devices. The system features a switchable resistor bank with multiple discrete resistance values, each corresponding to different PoE power classes, enabling dynamic power classification. An Ethernet switch circuit routes data between upstream and downstream ports, ensuring seamless communication. A microcontroller-based electronic control circuit configures the Ethernet switch, accepts a total power output value specifying the combined power to be delivered to downstream ports, and controls the power supply circuit to distribute power accordingly. This design ensures efficient power management, redundancy, and flexible power allocation in PoE networks.
2. The network bridge of claim 1 , wherein the switch control logic includes at least one DIP switch, wherein a state of the at least one DIP switch selects a resistor among the plurality of discrete resistance values, and wherein the selected resistor corresponds to a PoE power class, the electronic control circuit further configured to: determine a selected PoE power class by determining the value of the selected resistor; determine the total power output data value based on the selected PoE power class; and configure the power supply circuit to distribute the received electrical energy to the primary downstream port and to the secondary downstream port up to the total power output data value.
A network bridge device is designed to manage power distribution in a Power over Ethernet (PoE) system, addressing the need for configurable power allocation to multiple downstream ports. The device includes a power supply circuit that receives electrical energy and distributes it to primary and secondary downstream ports. A switch control logic, implemented using at least one DIP switch, allows for manual selection of a resistor from a set of discrete resistance values. Each resistor corresponds to a specific PoE power class, enabling the device to dynamically adjust power distribution based on the selected class. An electronic control circuit determines the selected PoE power class by measuring the resistor value, calculates the total power output data value based on this class, and configures the power supply circuit to distribute power to the downstream ports up to the specified limit. This ensures compliance with PoE standards while optimizing power delivery to connected devices. The system enhances flexibility in power management, allowing users to adapt the device to different PoE requirements without hardware modifications.
3. The network bridge of claim 1 , further comprising: a data port through which the electronic control circuit, including the microcontroller and the memory, may be programmed, wherein the electronic control circuit is further configured to: receive a programming via the data port; receive the total power output data value via the programming; select a resistor among the plurality of discrete resistance values, wherein the selected resistor corresponds to a PoE power class; determine the total power output data value based on the selected PoE power class; and configure the power supply circuit to distribute the received electrical energy to the primary downstream port and to the secondary downstream port up to the total power output data value.
This invention relates to a network bridge device designed to manage power distribution in a Power over Ethernet (PoE) system. The problem addressed is the need for flexible and programmable power allocation in PoE devices, particularly when multiple downstream ports require different power levels. The network bridge includes an electronic control circuit with a microcontroller and memory, along with a power supply circuit that distributes electrical energy to primary and secondary downstream ports. A key feature is a data port that allows the control circuit to be programmed, enabling dynamic adjustment of power distribution. The control circuit receives programming instructions via the data port, including a total power output data value. It then selects a resistor from a set of discrete resistance values, where each resistor corresponds to a specific PoE power class. Based on the selected PoE class, the control circuit determines the total power output and configures the power supply circuit to distribute power to the downstream ports up to this value. This ensures efficient and compliant power delivery while allowing customization for different PoE applications. The invention enhances adaptability in PoE networks by enabling remote or on-site reprogramming of power settings.
4. The network bridge of claim 1 , further comprising: a power input connection, wherein the power supply circuit is further configured to receive electrical energy via the power input connection and to distribute the energy received via the power input connection to the network bridge and to the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port.
A network bridge device is designed to connect multiple network segments while providing power distribution capabilities. The device includes a power supply circuit that receives electrical energy from an external source via a dedicated power input connection. This power supply circuit distributes the received energy to the network bridge itself and to at least two downstream ports—referred to as a primary downstream port and a secondary downstream port. The network bridge facilitates communication between connected network segments, ensuring data packets are forwarded based on their destination addresses. The power distribution feature allows the device to supply electrical power to connected devices through the downstream ports, eliminating the need for separate power sources. This integration simplifies network deployment by combining data connectivity and power delivery in a single unit, particularly useful in environments where power outlets are limited or where devices require PoE (Power over Ethernet) functionality. The power supply circuit ensures stable power distribution to both the bridge and the downstream ports, maintaining reliable operation of the network infrastructure.
5. A network system, comprising: a process controller; an Ethernet switch having a first port and a second port; a network bridge, including: a primary upstream PoE port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy, wherein the primary upstream PoE port is connected with the first port of the Ethernet switch; a secondary upstream PoE port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy, wherein the secondary upstream PoE port is connected with the second port of the Ethernet switch; a primary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit electrical energy; a secondary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit electrical energy; a power supply circuit connected to the primary upstream PoE port and to the secondary upstream PoE port and configured to receive electrical energy from the primary upstream PoE port and the secondary upstream PoE port and to distribute the received electrical energy to the network bridge, the primary downstream port, and the secondary downstream port; a switchable resistor bank connected to the power supply circuit, wherein the switchable resistor bank includes a plurality of discrete resistance values, wherein each discrete resistance value corresponds to a PoE power class; an Ethernet switch circuit connected to the primary upstream PoE port, the secondary upstream PoE port, the primary downstream port, and the secondary downstream port and configured to route Ethernet data between the primary upstream PoE port and the primary downstream port and to route Ethernet data between the secondary upstream PoE port and the secondary downstream port; a switch control logic configured to switch the switchable resistor bank among the plurality of discrete resistance values; and an electronic control circuit including a microcontroller and a memory, wherein the electronic control circuit is configured to: configure the Ethernet switch circuit: accept a total power output data value, wherein the total power output data value specifies the amount of electrical energy to be output by the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port: and control the power supply circuit to distribute the total power output value of electrical energy to the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port; and a first field device including: a first port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit and receive electrical energy; a second port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit and receive electrical energy; a field device power supply circuit connected to the first port and the second port and configured to receive electrical energy from the first port and to distribute the received electrical energy to the field device and to the second port; an Ethernet switch circuit connected to the first port and the second port and configured to route Ethernet data between the first port and the second port and further configured to route Ethernet data to the field device; and a field device electronics including a microcontroller and a memory, wherein the field device electronics are configured to configure the field device Ethernet switch circuit and to control the field device power supply circuit, wherein the first field device and the network bridge are connected to each other for the transfer of Ethernet data and electrical energy by connecting the first port of the first field device with the primary downstream port of the network bridge and by connecting the second port of the first field device with the secondary downstream port of the network bridge.
This invention relates to a network system for power and data distribution in industrial or IoT environments. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently delivering both Ethernet data and Power over Ethernet (PoE) to multiple devices while ensuring power redundancy and dynamic power allocation. The network bridge acts as a central hub, featuring dual upstream PoE ports connected to an Ethernet switch for redundant data and power input. It includes primary and secondary downstream PoE ports for distributing power and data to connected devices. A power supply circuit aggregates power from both upstream ports and distributes it to downstream ports, with a switchable resistor bank allowing the bridge to advertise different PoE power classes. An electronic control circuit, including a microcontroller, configures the Ethernet switch and manages power distribution based on a specified total output value. The system also includes field devices, which are endpoints that receive power and data from the bridge. Each field device has dual ports for redundant connections, an Ethernet switch for data routing, and a power supply circuit to distribute power to the device and any downstream connections. The field device electronics, including a microcontroller, control power allocation and data routing. The bridge and field devices connect via their respective ports, forming a resilient network for both data and power distribution.
6. The network system of claim 5 , wherein the Ethernet switch is a PoE Ethernet switch, and wherein the PoE Ethernet switch is configured to supply electrical energy to the primary upstream PoE port and the secondary upstream PoE port.
This invention relates to a network system incorporating a Power over Ethernet (PoE) Ethernet switch designed to supply electrical energy to multiple upstream ports. The system addresses the need for reliable power distribution in network environments where devices require both data connectivity and electrical power through a single Ethernet cable. The PoE Ethernet switch is configured to deliver power to at least two upstream PoE ports, ensuring redundancy and flexibility in power delivery. This setup allows for seamless integration with other network components, such as routers or access points, that may require PoE functionality. The switch's ability to supply power to multiple upstream ports enhances system reliability by providing backup power paths and supporting scalable network deployments. The invention is particularly useful in environments where uninterrupted power and data transmission are critical, such as enterprise networks, industrial automation, or smart building infrastructure. By integrating power and data transmission into a single Ethernet switch, the system simplifies installation and reduces the need for separate power supplies, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
7. The network system of claim 5 , wherein the network bridge further includes a power input connection, wherein the power supply circuit is further configured to receive electrical energy via the power input connection.
A network system includes a network bridge that facilitates communication between different network segments, such as a wired Ethernet network and a wireless network. The bridge ensures seamless data transfer while maintaining network segmentation for security and performance. The system addresses the challenge of integrating diverse network types while preserving isolation between them. The network bridge includes a power supply circuit that provides electrical power to its components. This circuit is designed to receive electrical energy from an external source via a dedicated power input connection. The power input connection allows the bridge to draw power from an external power supply, ensuring reliable operation without relying solely on power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or other internal power sources. This feature enhances flexibility in deployment, as the bridge can be powered independently of the network connections it manages. The power supply circuit may also include additional components, such as voltage regulators or surge protectors, to ensure stable and safe power delivery. By incorporating a dedicated power input, the system avoids potential power limitations or conflicts that may arise when relying on network-based power sources. This design is particularly useful in environments where consistent power delivery is critical, such as industrial or enterprise networks. The system ensures robust performance while maintaining compatibility with various network configurations.
8. The network system of claim 5 , wherein the field device power supply circuit is further configured to receive electrical energy from the second port and to distribute the received electrical energy to the field device and to the first port.
A network system for industrial automation includes a field device power supply circuit that manages power distribution between multiple ports and connected field devices. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently supplying and distributing electrical energy in industrial networks where devices may have varying power requirements and connectivity states. The power supply circuit is designed to receive electrical energy from a second port and then distribute this energy to both a field device and a first port. This ensures that power is available where needed, even if one connection is disrupted or if power demands fluctuate. The circuit may also include features to regulate voltage, prevent overloading, and ensure stable power delivery to connected devices. The system improves reliability and flexibility in industrial networks by dynamically managing power flow based on operational conditions. This approach is particularly useful in environments where devices must operate continuously with minimal downtime, such as in process control, manufacturing, or energy management systems. The power supply circuit's ability to redistribute energy enhances system resilience and reduces the risk of power-related failures.
9. The network system of claim 5 , wherein the field device further includes an external power connection, and wherein the field device power supply circuit is further configured to receive electrical energy via the external power connection.
A network system for industrial automation includes field devices that communicate with a central controller. These field devices are typically battery-powered and may experience power limitations, affecting their operational reliability and longevity. To address this, the system incorporates field devices with an external power connection. The field device includes a power supply circuit that can receive electrical energy from an external source, such as a wired connection, in addition to its internal battery. This external power connection allows the field device to operate continuously without relying solely on battery power, extending its operational lifespan and ensuring uninterrupted functionality. The power supply circuit manages the distribution of power from both the external source and the internal battery, ensuring efficient energy use. This design is particularly useful in industrial environments where continuous monitoring and control are critical, as it reduces downtime and maintenance requirements associated with battery replacement. The external power connection can be integrated into the field device's housing, providing a robust and scalable solution for power management in industrial automation systems.
10. The network system of claim 5 , further comprising: a second field device, wherein the second port of the first field device is disconnected from the secondary downstream port and connected with the first port of the second field device, and the second port of the second field device is connected with the secondary downstream port, and wherein the electrical energy is transferred from the primary downstream port to the first port of the first field device and from the second port of the first field device to the first port of the second field device.
This invention relates to a network system for transferring electrical energy between field devices in an industrial or process control environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing power across multiple devices while maintaining reliable communication and data transfer. The network system includes a primary downstream port that supplies electrical energy to a first field device, which then distributes the power to other connected devices. The first field device has a first port connected to the primary downstream port and a second port that can be reconfigured to connect to either a secondary downstream port or another field device. In this configuration, the second port of the first field device is disconnected from the secondary downstream port and instead connected to the first port of a second field device. The second port of the second field device is then connected to the secondary downstream port. Electrical energy flows from the primary downstream port to the first port of the first field device, then from the second port of the first field device to the first port of the second field device, and finally to the secondary downstream port. This arrangement allows for flexible power distribution and ensures continuous operation even if a direct connection to the secondary downstream port is unavailable. The system supports both power transfer and data communication, enabling seamless integration into existing industrial networks.
11. A method of operating a network bridge, comprising: providing a PoE power supply equipment (PSE); providing a network bridge, including: a primary upstream PoE port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy; a secondary upstream PoE port embodied to transmit and receive data and to receive electrical energy; a primary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to output electrical energy; a secondary downstream port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to output electrical energy; and a switchable resistor bank including a plurality of discrete resistance values, wherein each discrete resistance value corresponds to a PoE power class, wherein the primary upstream port and the secondary upstream port of the network bridge are electrically connected to the PSE; providing a first field device, the first field device including: a first port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit and receive electrical energy; and a second port embodied to transmit and receive data via Ethernet and to transmit and receive electrical energy, wherein the first port of the first field device is connected to the primary downstream port of the network bridge; determining a total power requirement, wherein the total power requirement includes electrical power necessary to operate the network bridge and the first field device; determining a PoE power class having a power rating greater than the total power requirement; configuring the switchable resistor bank to a resistance value corresponding to the determined PoE power class; determining the PoE power class of the network bridge by the connected PSE measuring the resistance value of the switchable resistor bank; supplying electrical energy from the PSE to the network bridge according to the PoE power class; supplying electrical energy from the primary downstream port of the network bridge to the first port of the first field device; and communicating Ethernet data from the primary downstream port of the network bridge to the first port of the first field device.
A network bridge system with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities is designed to efficiently distribute power and data in industrial or networked environments. The system addresses the challenge of dynamically allocating PoE power to multiple devices while ensuring compatibility with different power classes. The network bridge includes primary and secondary upstream PoE ports for receiving power and data from a PoE power supply equipment (PSE) and primary and secondary downstream ports for delivering power and data to connected field devices. A switchable resistor bank within the bridge allows the system to select a resistance value corresponding to a specific PoE power class, which the PSE measures to determine the required power level. The bridge calculates the total power needed for its own operation and the connected field device, then configures the resistor bank to request the appropriate power class from the PSE. Once the power class is established, the PSE supplies power to the bridge, which in turn distributes it to the field device while maintaining data communication. This approach ensures efficient power distribution and compatibility with various PoE devices.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: providing a second field device wherein the first port of the second field device is connected to the second port of the first field device, and the second port of the second field device is connected to the secondary downstream port of the network bridge, thereby forming a daisy-chain network; supplying electrical energy from the second port of the first field device to the first port of the second field device; communicating the Ethernet data from the second port of the first field device to the first port of the second field device; and communicating the Ethernet data from second port of the second field device to the secondary downstream port of the network bridge, wherein the total power requirement further includes electrical power necessary to operate the second field device.
This invention relates to a network system for industrial automation, specifically addressing the challenge of powering and communicating with multiple field devices in a daisy-chain configuration while managing power distribution and data transmission. The system includes a network bridge with primary and secondary downstream ports, a first field device with first and second ports, and a second field device also with first and second ports. The first field device's second port connects to the second field device's first port, while the second field device's second port connects to the network bridge's secondary downstream port, forming a daisy-chain network. Electrical power is supplied from the first field device's second port to the second field device's first port, enabling operation of both devices. Ethernet data is communicated from the first field device's second port to the second field device's first port and then from the second field device's second port to the network bridge's secondary downstream port. The total power requirement includes the electrical power needed to operate both field devices, ensuring efficient power distribution and data communication across the network. This configuration simplifies wiring and reduces infrastructure complexity in industrial automation environments.
13. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: testing at the network bridge the Ethernet traffic at the primary downstream port and the secondary downstream port, wherein the testing is configured to detect a failure in the daisy-chain network; when the tested Ethernet traffic indicates a failure in the daisy-chain network, the method further comprises: communicating Ethernet data from the secondary downstream port of the network bridge to the second port of the second field device; and communicating the Ethernet data from the first port of the second field device to the second port of the first field device.
This invention relates to network bridge systems in industrial or process control environments, specifically addressing failures in daisy-chain network configurations. In such networks, field devices are connected in a linear sequence, where each device forwards Ethernet traffic to the next. A failure in any device can disrupt communication across the entire chain. The invention provides a method to detect and mitigate such failures by incorporating a network bridge with primary and secondary downstream ports. The bridge monitors Ethernet traffic on both ports to identify disruptions in the daisy-chain. Upon detecting a failure, the bridge reroutes Ethernet data through the secondary downstream port to a second field device, which then forwards the data to the first field device, bypassing the failed segment. This ensures continuous communication despite individual device failures, enhancing network reliability in critical applications. The solution is particularly useful in environments where uninterrupted data flow is essential, such as industrial automation or process control systems. The method leverages existing network infrastructure without requiring extensive modifications, making it a practical and scalable approach to fault tolerance in daisy-chain networks.
14. The method of claim 12 , wherein, upon a network or a device failure, the method further comprises: supplying electrical energy form the secondary downstream port of the network bridge to the second port of the second field device.
This invention relates to networked industrial control systems, specifically addressing the need for reliable power distribution and fault tolerance in field device networks. The system includes a network bridge with multiple ports, where a primary downstream port supplies power to a first field device, and a secondary downstream port provides redundant power to a second field device. In the event of a network or device failure, the system automatically redirects power from the secondary downstream port of the network bridge to the second field device, ensuring continuous operation. The network bridge monitors the status of connected devices and the network, detecting failures and initiating power redirection to maintain system stability. This redundancy mechanism prevents downtime in critical industrial processes by maintaining power to essential field devices even when primary power sources or network connections fail. The system is particularly useful in environments where uninterrupted operation is required, such as manufacturing, process control, or automation systems. The invention improves fault tolerance and reliability in networked field device configurations by dynamically reallocating power resources during failures.
Unknown
November 24, 2020
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